Hotel Xanadu

In a modern, glass-fronted block in the center of West London's Ealing district, the Xanadu provides chic accommodation in a sophisticated setting with an Asian twist. Its mix of business, tourist, and family guests are greeted with free green tea or coconut ice cream on arrival. The hotel's namesake theme continues with fortune cookies in the rooms, discreet Chinese finishes, and delicious dim sum in its Shikumen restaurant. Decor is minimalist, with clean lines, Asian touches, and a classy understated vibe: Globe-filled shelf displays behind the front desk are met with muted grays, glossed Chinese-painted reds, and the lobby's mosaic-printed fabric armchairs. Larger-than-life plant pots, decorative orchids, and statement artwork are discreetly offset by low-hanging lamps and large glass windows. Though not in Central London, this means the atmosphere is quieter than the busy city hub.

Though not in Central London (a definite downside for some), the Xanadu is nevertheless nicely positioned in the center of its Ealing location. The surrounding shops, bars, and restaurants have a decided village-like feel and for some greenery, Ealing Green is a four-minute walk and leads to the larger Walpole Park. Serving the Central and District lines, Ealing Broadway Station is a seven-minute walk away and has direct trains to Oxford Street and the West End in under half an hour, as well as trains to the city's financial district. Two minutes from the hotel, a bus can take travelers directly to the scenic Kew Gardens in 30 minutes. Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre is a short two-minute walk and a small supermarket is equally close. Heathrow Airport is approximately 30 minutes by taxi and a little less by public transport with a few train changes. On-site parking is not offered.

The hotel's 46 rooms and two suites are modern, spacious, and comfortable, outfitted in muted tones and soft textures that lend a sleek feel. Expect tan carpet and walls, dark-wood furniture, either neutral-tone or red bed linens, and large canvas prints of vintage books or typewriters. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, phones, safes, ironing facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Welcome trays of cookies, tea, and coffee come alongside electric kettles and French Press coffeemakers. Echoing the downstairs Asian theme, free fortune cookies are provided, as are Chinese language learning book. Bathrooms are classy with modern, taupe-colored tiling and all have walk-in showers, hairdryers, quality toiletries, and fluffy towels. Some add bathtubs. The two Suites have separate living areas and guarantee tubs, slippers, and robes. There are no mini-fridges or minibars.

Serving great dim sum and authentic Chinese fare, the hotel's Shikumen restaurant is stylish but relaxed. Muted-gray finishes give a sophisticated vibe and backlit displays of ceramic Chinese figurines reflect the menu's Asian theme. Drinks can be had in the separate lounge seating area or up at the bar. A buffet breakfast with cooked and continental options is available for a fee in the restaurant. Though there are no wellness facilities on-site, guests have free access to the nearby Eden Fitness, located a seven-minute walk away. It offers a full gym, pool with hot tub, sauna, and steam room, plus spa treatments can be booked. For some outdoor exercise, the hotel also loans bicycles for free, although the free-to-rent iPad can make a cozy stay in equally appealing. Wi-Fi is free throughout.